Ultra-rare X-Wing model used in Star Wars sells at auction for $2.3 million

An ultra-rare X-Wing fighter model created by Industrial Light & Magic and used in Star Wars: A New Hope has sold at auction for $2,375,000.

This miniature model was originally designed for Red X-Wing Squadron Leader but was later adapted to be used for Red Three though it was never used for any Red Three scenes. It is one of the few surviving models which were used to film the battle scenes at the Death Star, as most were destroyed in the course of filming, and it is believed to be the only intact X-Wing model used in the original Star Wars film in a private collection.

Popverse actually got up close and personal with this X-Wing during Propstore's exhibition at Star Wars Celebration 2022. Check out this video:

Star Wars History! Original Scripts, Sabers, and More with Prop Store

This model's previous owner did not realize the importance or history of the model. It was through research and screen-matching that the experts at PropStore were able to determine that the model was used in the filming of A New Hope and in what context it was used. The model, like several of the models used in the film, was bult to a 1:24 scale, and it measures 22" x 18" x 8".

The description in the auction catalog reads: "The X-wing fighter model is preserved extremely well and remains in excellent condition. The light-weight rigid foam remains solid, and the original unrestored paintwork is in excellent condition, with only subtle flaking in small areas. One of the laser cannons exhibits slight warpage, and one of the scratch-built laser cannon tip assemblies is loose. The pyro X-wing was intended to mount on a C-stand with a hole in the back of the fuselage, or to be hung from wires during filming. There are several small holes in the top of the fuselage related to hanging the model on wires. A custom-made aluminum stand that supports the model through the fuselage is included with the piece, as is a wooden transport crate."

Here's an immense 38-picture gallery with high-resolution shots of the X-Wing:

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Attribution

Propstore was established in 1998 by Stephen Lane, and it is one of the world's leading vendors of original movie props and costumes.

Popverse has covered both this auction and this actual model during Star Wars Celebration. Check out our article on Propstore and this historic sale of Star Wars history.